CNN's GUT CHECK | for January 8, 2014| 5 p.m.
– n. a pause to assess the state, progress or condition of the political news cycle

BREAKING … CHRISTIE RESPONDS TO BRIDGE CONTROVERSY:
Trenton, NJ – Governor Chris Christie today issued the following written statement: “What I've seen today for the first time is unacceptable. I am outraged and deeply saddened to learn that not only was I misled by a member of my staff, but this completely inappropriate and unsanctioned conduct was made without my knowledge. One thing is clear: this type of behavior is unacceptable and I will not tolerate it because the people of New Jersey deserve better. This behavior is not representative of me or my Administration in any way, and people will be held responsible for their actions.”TEXTS, E-MAILS SUGGEST POLITICAL VENDETTA IN NJ BRIDGE CONTROVERSY: E-mails emerged on Wednesday purportedly from top aides to New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie bolstering the case that lane closures to the George Washington Bridge were borne from a political vendetta against opponents of the governor, and were not the result of an incompetent traffic study as his administration claimed. – Jake Tapper